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Aircraft Mechanic Career Guide

Aircraft Mechanics fit, service, repair and overhaul aircraft components, engines, accessories and related equipment.

Aircraft Mechanic Task

* Fit, examine, test and service aircraft engines;
* Replace engine components or complete engines;
* Analyze test data to evaluate the condition of engine, aircraft and equipment;
* Compile information from measurements and performance test;
* Compare the state of items such as fuel and oil levels and tire pressures, and the condition and cleanliness of mechanical equipment to required standards;
* Work close to tolerances, and use precision measuring instruments and testing equipment to ensure adjustments and repairs are made according to manufacturer’s specification standards;
* Manipulating hand and power tools to repair or replace defective parts.

Aircraft Mechanic Basic Educational Requirement

There is no prescribed course or field of study for prospective Aircraft Mechanics; however, an aviation-related course would be an advantage. Among the courses offered are Bachelor of Science in Aircraft Technology (4 years) and Aircraft Technician Course (2 years). Aircraft Mechanics are required to have a license from the Air Transportation Office (ATO) before they can perform their duties. The licensing process includes written examinations and panel interviews where a longer period of study in an aviation-related field is an advantage. For Aircraft Mechanics, the rules stipulate a practicum or on-the-job experience in an authorized aircraft maintenance or repair station. Because of the technical requirements of the job, new entrants to the workforce need to familiarize themselves with the equipment and must have a theoretical and practical knowledge of the job.

Aircraft Mechanic Skills and Competencies

* Mathematical , analytical and communication skills;
* Mechanical aptitude with a thorough knowledge of basic Math.

Physical Attributes and Characteristics

* Must have an analytical mind since this occupation involves work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

Aircraft Mechanic Salary / Compensation

In the local labor market, a Junior Mechanic receives approximately P20,199 per month. For an Aircraft Mechanic A position, the base pay starts at P30,000. Additional benefits include premiums for overtime work on rest days, holidays, and special days; car acquisition; rice subsidy; training opportunities; and health care maintenance. In the U.S, base pay is much higher at an average of P68,000 per month. In Singapore, the rate is around 3,000 Singaporean dollars per month (P96,865) while in the United Arab Emirates, the pay scale is about 3,713 dirham per month (P52,767).

Aircraft Mechanic Prospects for Career Advancement

Accountants with adequate academic preparation may advance to positions with more responsibility in 1 or 2 years and to senior positions within another few years as supervisors, managers or partners in an accounting firm. They may assume the position of chief accountant, budget director, controller or chief financial officer. Those who excel in their jobs may move to executive positions in other fields of specialization such as management accounting or internal auditing, occupying top positions as Vice-President for Finance or as Corporation President.

Aircraft Mechanic Employment Opportunities

It takes some five to six years before an Aircraft Mechanic can acquire a Mechanic A position which give them opportunities to become Aircraft Inspectors. Those with broad experience in maintenance and overhaul can, advance to lead inspector or shop supervisor positions.

 

Those who undergo additional business and management training can open their own aircraft maintenance facilities.

 

In a forecast made in 2004, it was projected that from 2004 - 2023, air passenger traffic will grow by 5% per annum. This will require a delivery of 16,601 new passenger aircrafts. By 2023, there will be 21,759 passenger aircrafts in service throughout the world. This will mean that airlines will be competing for skilled aircraft personnel including Aircraft Mechanics.

Aircraft Mechanic Cost of Education

An Aircraft Technician Course costs around P100,000 covering 2 years of schooling.
The 4 year course on Aircraft Maintenance Technology would cost approximately P160,000.

* Based on tuition fee rates for school year 2007 - 2008